Let’s face it — our feet do a thankless job. We use and abuse them and rarely give them the attention they deserve.

Modern medical rhetoric is largely prevention-focused — and rightly so. Early detection and prevention of disease is critical in easing the burden of the ageing population on Canada’s healthcare system. Like good patients, we regularly see our dentists, naturopathic doctors, optometrists and chiropractors all in the name of preventative health. Yet we seem to forget all about our feet — until they hurt, of course.

Our feet tell a story about our overall systemic health. A simple foot assessment by a registered chiropodist can identify more serious health conditions, and this can be lifesaving for some. Some of those nagging conditions which you have discounted as age-related or the result of poor genetics could actually be signaling something more serious. Maladies like dry flaking skin, reduced hair growth, tingling or numbness, swelling of the ankles, thick or discolored toenails, extra cold toes, or excessive sweating are red flags which deserve further attention.

A consultation with a registered chiropodist may not be at the top of our list of priorities, but it should be. What if that visit could identify flat feet in your child and prevent shin splints during soccer practice or knee arthritis later in life? What if your leg cramping led to the diagnosis and management of peripheral arterial disease? What if a routine foot assessment saves a diabetic patient from developing wounds and infections which could lead to limb amputation down the road?

May is Foot Health Month in Ontario. Our feet carry us through life, why not celebrate them by putting them back on our list of priorities! Go to ontariochiropodist.comto find a chiropodist near you today and get your family’s feet checked in the name of preventative medicine!